Metro News Release

Metro riders can plan Metrobus, Metrorail trips on Google Transit data now available on Google Maps

Metro riders can now plan their trips using Google Maps online or with their mobile device.

Metro, in partnership with Google, announced today that riders can visit http://maps.google.com/, select “Get Directions” and the “public transit” icon, and enter their start and end address. People with mobile devices can use the Google Maps for Mobile application or by visiting the following URL on their phone’s browser: m.google.com/maps.

“We are pleased to partner with Google to give our riders another convenient way to plan their trips on Metrobus and Metrorail,” said Catherine Hudgins, Chair of Metro’s Board of Directors. “Google Maps is one of the most popular online mapping sites in the world, which will help local Metro riders plan their trips and assist visitors from around the globe.”

Google Maps also connects Metrobus and Metrorail riders with other regional transportation providers such as Amtrak, DC Circulator, Fairfax CUE, Loudoun County Transit, MARC and Montgomery County Ride On. Google continues to work with additional transit sources to expand coverage.

“Google’s promotion of public transit increases awareness of alternatives to driving and gives our riders access to other useful information such as aerial imagery, business listings, user reviews and street views,” said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Richard Sarles.

“In addition to making our transit data available on Google Maps, Metro is committed to making its transit data available so customers get the benefit of the best app tools that are developed for public use,” Sarles said.

In August 2010, Metro offered its transit data to the general public for use in developing third-party applications for the Internet and mobile devices. Metro has been a leader in the transit industry in making public real-time data sets. Metro’s transit data is available for download from Metro’s web site.